CAMPAIGNERS are fighting to save a bus service which not only brings tourists to picturesque part of Exmoor but also provides a vital link for local workers.

The Quantock Motor Services 300 route takes passengers daily from Minehead to Lynmouth via Porlock.

But it is one of a long list of subsidised services that could lose Somerset County Council funding as the authority strives to save £1.5 million.

The 300 is one of 108 routes across the county deemed to be not fully commercially viable.

However, a campaign to save it from the axe is being spearheaded by the new owners of the Culbone Inn, an isolated pub that lies directly on the route.

Mark Sanders, who bought the business with partners Jack Scott and Tony O'Shaughnessy last March and re-opened it after a major refurbishment in August, said the bus service provided a valuable and vital link.

"We rely on it to bring our team to work, as well as bringing diners to our door," said Mr Sanders.

"Tourists love this picturesque route, many residents rely on it and traders benefit from it.

"It is a unique and beneficial tourist attraction to the area."

Mr Sanders said a petition set up very recently had already attracted more than 200 signatures.

He said campaigners were urging people to let the county council know their views on the potential loss of the service.

"This is a very important service for many people. We currently want to offer two key management posts to people who live in Minehead but they would be travelling by bus and if it isn't running in 2012 then we will have to look outside of the area to recruit the staff we need.

"We really want to employ local people but the threat to this service isn't helping."

The county council has extended the deadline for responses to January 20, with a decision expected to be made by councillors in February.

Responses can be made online via the county council's website http://www.somerset.gov.uk">www.somerset.gov.uk.

Anyone wanting to sign the petition ca do so at the Culbone Inn, Porlock Visitor Centre or Lynton Tourist Association.